At UFC 284, Islam Makhachev triumphed over Alexander Volkanovski by unanimous decision to successfully defend his title.
The Dagestan wrestler also bagged the status of the no.1 pound-for-pound fighter in the promotion. Moreover, Makhachev claims that he will remain the no. 1 P4P fighter even if Jon Jones wins his upcoming fight against Ciryl Gane.
Islam Makhachev’s first title defense not only ended with a victory over the Aussie champion but also extended his unbeaten run to 12 wins. However, the victory didn’t come easy for the lightweight champion. The fight lasted the entire five rounds, with Makhachev and Volkanovski able to nullify each other successfully. Many people believe that the decision should have gone in favor of ‘The Great’.
After the toughest match in his UFC career, Islam Makhachev appeared in the post-fight press conference. He was asked about his thoughts on the returning Jon Jones. ‘Bones’ held the best pound-for-pound fighter status before he had trouble with the law in 2021. However, the lightweight champion believes he doesn’t have to worry about that because he will remain the best fighter even after Jones returns to the UFC.
Islam Makhachev claims Jones Jones is not fighting the best fighter
The Dagestan native claims that there is a reason behind his confidence in retaining the top spot in the P4P rankings. He said, “Jon Jones is a great fighter, of course. He’s the best, but last time he won a split decision, or he always has hard fights. I don’t know.”
Makhachev added that he doesn’t believe that Jon Jones’s return fight will propel him to the top of the rankings. “I don’t think after [his] fight, he will be the best. Why I’m the best right now because I beat best fighter in the world. This is why I think I deserve this. If somebody want to be best, I’m ready.”
Islam Makhachev earned his top spot in the P4P rankings after facing the best fighter in Alexander Volkanovski. The Dagestani fighter will be looking forward to Jon Jones’ fight against Ciryl Gane in order to keep an eye on the pound-for-pound list.
Makhachev will most likely take some time off after the toughest fight in his UFC career. While Jon Jones will make his comeback at UFC 285, which will take place on March 4.
What are your thoughts on the P4P fighter rankings in the UFC? Let us know in the comments below.
